Patrons from the Peabody and Burns communities are invited to attend a free sloppy Joe dinner from 5 to 6 p.m. on Jan. 12 in the Brown Building.

A program on bullying will follow the meal from 6 to 8 p.m. USD 398, the USD 398 site council, the Peabody Association of Churches, and the Peabody-Burns Parent Teacher Organization will sponsor the dinner and program.

Joe Coles, an expert consultant on the issue of bullying, is the featured speaker for the evening.

“Mr. Coles is a highly respected expert in his field,” PBES Principal Ken Parry said. “He will be working with our students throughout the day before giving this presentation.”

Parry encouraged patrons, especially parents, to attend.

“We still have room available at the dinner,” he said. “There is no charge and there will even be free baby-sitting for those who need it. All we ask is that anyone planning to attend, make a reservation in advance so we know how much food to prepare.”

Parry said that although the deadline to make reservations was Monday, he will still accept calls to reserve a spot at the dinner.

“Please let us know ASAP. We want everyone to be able to take advantage of this opportunity,” he said.

To reserve tickets, call Peabody-Burns Elementary School at (620) 983-2188.